EMDR
What is EMDR?
EMDR is a researched method of therapy that can be utilized to treat trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and a variety of other issues. EMDR is a structured model that incorporates cognitive and mind-body approaches along with bilateral stimulation such as hand tappers, or eye movements in a goal to process upsetting information and resolve distress around specific memories, thoughts, and feelings.
What makes EMDR more effective than talk therapy?
When a trauma occurs in our life the brain stores the sounds, smells, images, of the experience. This information becomes stored in the right side of our brains. The story telling or talking side of the brain is located in the left side of the brain making it difficult for the brain to process the negative information from a trauma just by talking through the story. Although talk therapy can be helpful, it’s more effective mixing talk with EMDR. EMDR gets both sides of the brain engaged in therapy. The protocol also incorporates the body, negative thoughts, and feelings. Once upsetting material or memories are processed, people generally feel less upset, and thinking about the memory becomes more integrated which supports healing. This protocol is combined with bi-lateral movement such as hand tappers, eye movements or bi-lateral music which causes a more rapid and internal processing of the trauma.
EMDR
Does it Work?
Research indicates that in 3-6 sessions EMDR can resolve distress related to a single incident trauma. More sessions are needed for more complex trauma or multiple incidents.
Over 30 controlled studies have investigated the effects of EMDR. These studies have consistently found EMDR effective in decreases or eliminating symptoms of PTSD for the majority of people. Clients often report improvement in other symptoms such as anxiety. (EMDRIA Brochure, 2011).
What client’s say:
“Past trauma caused me to disconnect from myself, EMDR helped me to connect to myself again”
“EMDR was incredible helpful in helping me resolve triggers and to feel better”
“I felt physically lighter in my body and able to breathe better after EMDR session”
Who can benefit from EMDR?
EMDR was originally researched for the treatment of trauma. EMDR is an evidenced based therapy. In my own practice, I see the positive effects EMDR has for people. EMDR can be used for a variety of issues with youth and adults. Some areas I assist clients with EMDR include:
Trauma trauma can include a single incident or a more complex relational trauma such as abuse as a child.
Anxiety and Depression EMDR can be helpful in resolving triggers to anxiety and depression and in addressing negative beliefs
Behavioral issues EMDR can help resolve negative feelings or triggers that cause behavioral issues
Relaxation and Skill Building EMDR can be used to reinforce relaxation, build coping skills, and reinforce new habits and behaviors
Find out more on EMDR?
Click here to listen to a recent interview I did on Talk Radio
To find more research about how EMDR works go to the EMDRIA
Additional Article on EMDR Expert Answers on EMDR - The New York Times